I’m an avid reader, but I’ve found just reading isn’t going to get you the results you need for success. You need to read the right books in the right way!
Here are a couple tips I’ve found will dramatically improve your reading and knowledge retention.
1. Don’t Listen To Non-Fiction Audiobooks
I’ve never found a productive use for non-fiction audiobooks. The only time non-fiction would be productive for audiobooks is for Biographies.
If you’re reading anything where it shows illustrations or models which correlate with the text, or it’s dense with loads of paragraphs you need to re-read or underline, just stick to plain in hand books.
You’re going to have a hard time trying to retain these books in Audible format.
2. Read Dense Material In The Morning
I’ve found it easier to process highly technical work and dense material in the morning. Could just be me, but it makes the reading easier.
After a day at work I’ve found my brain is beginning to want easier reading. (I probably need to get more focused, but it’s something I’ve noticed!)
3. Take Notes & Mark Your Books
I never used to do this, but when I started taking notes and marking my books with my thoughts it helped me retain much more information.
There’s a great quote about how you don’t really own a book until you actually mark it with your comments. That’s because a book is like having a conversation with the author. It shouldn’t be a 1 way street.
4. Read Fiction Books
Fiction will help you craft better stories if you’re selling (you are selling right!?) and it’s awesome for building imagination.
Fiction can often give you better analogies and insight into human nature than non-fiction books can too.
Don’t sleep on fiction books!